Work

Shortage of Obesity Medicine Specialists in the United States

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Obesity is among the most prevalent, expensive diseases in the United States, affecting more than 100 million Americans and costing $1.72 trillion annually.1 In June 2021, the Food and Drug Administration approved semaglutide for obesity, bringing increased attention to the obesity medicine field. In recent years, the growth of the specialty has accelerated, with physicians pursuing fellowship training or 60 continuing medical education credits, followed by an examination, for board certification.

Source: Mayo Clinic Proceedings

DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2025.10.015

Authors: Simar Singh Bajaj, Shreyas Teegala, Fatima Cody Stanford

Institutions: Stanford Medicine, Stanford University, Vanderbilt University, Harvard University

Language: English

Topic: Obesity and Health Practices

Subfield: Pharmacy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900